Soundgarden

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Dusty album cover

Dusty

Soundgarden

Lyrics

[Refrain]
Heeeeeeeeeeyyyyyy...

[Verse 1]
I think it's turnin' back around
And I think I like it
I think it's turnin' back around
Though I don't know why it is
I think it's turnin' back on me
I'm down on the upside
I think it's turnin' back on me
Now I'm on the good ride

[Chorus]
And nothing's gonna put me out
It's backin' down and under
I'm down on the upside now
It's turnin' back around
Turnin' back around

[Refrain]
Heeeeeeeeeeyyyyyy...

[Verse 2]
I think it's coming on the wind
Just like you said it
I think it's coming on the wind
And I'm gonna let it
I think it's turnin' back on me
Everything's easy
I think it's turnin' back on me
Everything's real to me
[Chorus]
And nothing's going to put me out
It's backin' down and under
I'm down on the upside now
It's turnin' back around
Turnin' back around
Turnin' back around

[Instrumental Break]
Fwooo...
Oooo...

[Refrain]
Yeaahhhhh...

[Verse 2]
I think it's comin' on the wind
Just like you said it
I think it's comin' on the wind
And I'm gonna let it out

[Chorus]
And nothing's going to put me out, yeah
It's backin' down and under
I'm down on the upside now
It's turnin' back around
Turnin' back around
Turnin' back around
Turnin' back around
[Outro]
(Turnin', turnin', turnin') Turnin' back around
(Turnin', turnin', turnin') Turnin' back around
(Turnin', turnin', turnin') Turnin' back around
(Turnin', turnin', turnin') Turnin' back around
Oh-woah-woah
Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh

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Soundgarden, the Grammy-award winning American rock band, has an impressive collection of songs that have captured the hearts of music lovers throughout the years. One of their remarkable oeuvres is the track "Dusty" that gained recognition after it appeared in the band’s 1996 album titled "Down on the Upside." "Dusty" is a slow, haunting track that showcases the band’s experimental side while maintaining a grunge feel.

The members of Soundgarden often experimented with their music, and "Dusty" is a good example of this experimentation. In a 1996 interview with Chris Cornell, he stated that "Down on the Upside" was originally his title for the album, but when the band’s guitarist Ben Shepherd wrote the music for the song, he named it "Dusty." Cornell explained that it was part of the band's ethos to avoid using song titles as album names as this would distract from the other tracks on the album.

About Dusty

"Dusty" is one of Soundgarden's most impressive examples of the artist's creative experimentations in their music. The track features a slow-paced, moody piece that uniquely blends melancholic guitar riffs with Chris Cornell’s raw, powerful vocals. The band's ability to blend different sounds and experiment with different styles is evident in this track, making it an all-time favorite among avid fans and connoisseurs of rock music.

The song begins with a melodic guitar riff that sets a somber mood before Cornell’s intense vocals come in. Although he later switches to a subtler and less straining voice, the impact of Cornell's initial high pitched wailing remains with the listener. He sings about a woman from his childhood who he refers to as "Dusty," reflecting a sense of nostalgia and longing. The track is layered with evocative yet obscure imagery, and Cornell's lyrics add a layer of depth to the otherwise straightforward composition.

The instrumental interludes in "Dusty" add a unique dimension to the song. The guitar solo towards the end, in particular, stands out, showcasing the guitarist's incredible talent. The addition of the saxophone in the midst of the guitar solo adds texture, making the song more multidimensional. The saxophonist contributes mellifluous and textured notes that complement the overall sound of the track.

Soundgarden's musical composition throughout "Dusty" is intricate yet subtle, with the bass guitar providing the foundation for the whole instrumentation. As the song comes to a close, the instrumentation fades away, leaving only the sound of a lone guitar which signifies the end of what might have been a past love story.

The Legacy of Dusty

"Dusty" has since become a beloved classic and one of Soundgarden's most celebrated and critically acclaimed compositions. The song demonstrates the band's unique style and versatility as they incorporate different sounds that create an eclectic yet cohesive music experience.

The track is proof that Soundgarden was ahead of its time and was always exploring new and exciting musical territories. The album, "Down On the Upside," did not achieve the commercial success of their previous albums, but it remains a fan favorite that showcases the band's artistry and creativity.

Dusty is a prime example of Soundgarden's ability to push the boundaries of what is expected of a rock band. Its dynamic soundscape and creative instrumentation are a testament to the band's lasting legacy in the world of rock music.

Wrapping Up

All in all, "Dusty" is an intriguing and unique track in Soundgarden's extensive discography. The haunting lyrics and experimental instrumentation showcase the band's ability to create emotionally charged rock music that transcends traditional boundaries. It’s no wonder that almost two decades after its release; the song remains relevant and highly regarded - many still cherish it as an iconic track that has left an indelible mark on the music industry.